In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country. Western countries are imposing sanctions on Myanmar as well.

Citing multiple government sources, the newspaper said the Japanese government would refrain from calling the suspension of Official Development Assistance (ODA) a "sanction" and would try to persuade the military junta to reach a democratic solution through dialogue.

Asked about the report, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said "there was no truth to the report," but left open the possibility of a change in policy.

"Regarding economic assistance for Myanmar, we will carefully monitor the situation without prejudice and consider (the options)," Kato told a news conference.

Japan has enjoyed good relations with Myanmar and has not taken hard stance against the military junta after February 1 coup. The coup toppled civilian government headed bu Aung San Suu Kyi.

Tokyo is a major donor to Myanmar and Japan's largest companies have been particularly aggressive in expanding business there in recent years, seeing it as Southeast Asia's last major frontier market. Japan also fears pushing Myanmar closer to China if it weakens its ties.

(With Reuters inputs)

In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country.

In light of the military coup in Myanmar, Japan is finalising plans to halt new development aid to the country reported Asahi Shimbun daily. This has come amid international pressure on Myanmar military junta to restore democracy in the country. Western countries are imposing sanctions on Myanmar as well. Citing multiple government sources, the newspaper said the Japanese government would refrain from calling the suspension of Official Development Assistance (ODA) a "sanction" and would try to persuade the military junta to reach a democratic solution through dialogue. Asked about the report, Chief Cabinet Secretary Katsunobu Kato said "there was no truth to the report," but left open the possibility of a change in policy. "Regarding economic assistance for Myanmar, we will carefully monitor the situation without prejudice and consider (the options)," Kato told a news conference. Japan has enjoyed good relations with Myanmar and has not taken hard stance against the military junta after February 1 coup. The coup toppled civilian government headed bu Aung San Suu Kyi. Tokyo is a major donor to Myanmar and Japan's largest companies have been particularly aggressive in expanding business there in recent years, seeing it as Southeast Asia's last major frontier market. Japan also fears pushing Myanmar closer to China if it weakens its ties. (With Reuters inputs)

Japan finalising plans to halt fresh aid to Myanmar, says report

The Japanese government is considering halting new assistance projects to Myanmar, where a military coup d'etat has taken place, Sputnik reported citing sources.&nbsp;

Earlier in February, Japan joined the Group of Seven advanced economics in condemning the coup and calling for the restoration of the civilian government in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Tokyo called for the release of Myanmar's state counsellor, Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint and other officials, who were placed under house arrest.&nbsp;

The Kyodo news agency on Thursday reported that despite condemning the coup, Japan, as a major donor to Myanmar, plans to continue emergency assistance offered through international organisations and NGOs in such areas as combating the Covid-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

On February 1, Myanmar's military seized power in the country, announcing a one-year state of emergency and vowing to take action against alleged voter fraud during the November 8 general election, which was won by the NLD party.&nbsp;

Myanmar's state counsellor, as well as the president and other top officials, who were members of the ruling NLD party, were detained and accused of election fraud.&nbsp;

Protests have been held across Myanmar since the military took over in which dozens of protesters have been injured and four people killed.&nbsp;

The Japanese government is considering halting new assistance projects to Myanmar, where a military coup d'etat has taken place, Sputnik reported citing sources.

The Japanese government is considering halting new assistance projects to Myanmar, where a military coup d'etat has taken place, Sputnik reported citing sources. Earlier in February, Japan joined the Group of Seven advanced economics in condemning the coup and calling for the restoration of the civilian government in Myanmar. Tokyo called for the release of Myanmar's state counsellor, Aung San Suu Kyi, President Win Myint and other officials, who were placed under house arrest. The Kyodo news agency on Thursday reported that despite condemning the coup, Japan, as a major donor to Myanmar, plans to continue emergency assistance offered through international organisations and NGOs in such areas as combating the Covid-19 pandemic. On February 1, Myanmar's military seized power in the country, announcing a one-year state of emergency and vowing to take action against alleged voter fraud during the November 8 general election, which was won by the NLD party. Myanmar's state counsellor, as well as the president and other top officials, who were members of the ruling NLD party, were detained and accused of election fraud. Protests have been held across Myanmar since the military took over in which dozens of protesters have been injured and four people killed.

After coup, Japan mulls halting new assistance projects to Myanmar

Deaths in Japan fell last year for the first time in more than a decade, a jarring contrast to the huge death tolls suffered by many countries in the pandemic and a signal that Japan’s coronavirus measures have had positive spillover effects.

The Health Ministry reported this week that deaths in Japan had dropped by more than 9,300 in 2020 to around 1.4 million. The decrease — seven-tenths of 1% from the year before — was a surprising turnabout for a nation with the oldest population in the world.

Watch |&nbsp;

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When the coronavirus first began spreading early last year, many feared that Japan’s large cohort of older people would make the country especially vulnerable. But case numbers and deaths have stayed much lower than in the United States and Western Europe.

As of Tuesday, Japan had recorded just under 7,600 deaths from the virus, and the seven-day average for new cases stood around 1,200. Daily infection numbers have never exceeded 8,000.

The United States, by contrast, has recorded more than 500,000 deaths and 28 million infections. Deaths from causes other than COVID-19 have reportedly risen, too, perhaps because people have avoided medical facilities.

Life expectancy for Americans fell by a full year in the first six months of 2020, the largest drop since World War II.

The most recent Japanese government data does not break down mortality by category, so it is difficult to say with certainty what caused the decrease in deaths.

But data from earlier in the year suggests that it was spurred in large part by a drastic decline in respiratory illnesses, a likely side effect of the country’s almost ubiquitous adoption of mask wearing and social distancing.

While masks were already a common sight in Japan, over the past year, they have become de rigueur as a virus-fighting measure.

The country has also widely adopted other steps to prevent transmission of the virus, including the placement of hand sanitizer at the entrance to virtually every commercial space and workplace, and broad adherence to government recommendations to avoid the “three C’s”: closed spaces, crowded places and close contact with others.

One other, albeit small, factor is a decrease in traffic accidents as fewer people took to the roads, especially as the government twice declared states of emergency. Deaths from road accidents dropped nearly 12% in 2020, to 2,839, according to data maintained by the National Police Agency. It was the lowest number since the agency began tracking the data in 1948.

Japan is not alone in seeing peripheral benefits from coronavirus measures. Deaths in China fell slightly in the first three months of 2020 outside the virus epicenter of Wuhan, according to a study by the University of Oxford and the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention.

While the decrease in deaths in Japan was a welcome development, there were some ominous signs. The country has seen a resurgence in suicides, particularly among women, with just under 4% more people taking their own lives in 2020 than in the previous year. Among women, the increase was nearly 15%.

Experts traced the phenomenon to stresses related to the pandemic including job losses, the increased isolation of people sheltering in place and the growing domestic burdens shouldered by women.

Japan’s population also continued to contract despite the decline in overall deaths. The country, which began shrinking in 2007 because of falling birthrates and its increasing proportion of older people, lost more than 511,000 people in 2020, a slight acceleration from the previous year.

Births fell once again last year, suggesting that the pandemic is likely to speed up Japan’s depopulation. According to government projections, the population, which now stands at 126 million, will fall below 100 million by 2053 and sink to 88 million by 2065.

Deaths in Japan fell last year for the first time in more than a decade, a jarring contrast to the huge death tolls suffered by many countries in the pandemic and a signal that Japan’s coronavirus measures have had positive spillover effects.

Deaths in Japan fell last year for the first time in more than a decade, a jarring contrast to the huge death tolls suffered by many countries in the pandemic and a signal that Japan’s coronavirus measures have had positive spillover effects. The Health Ministry reported this week that deaths in Japan had dropped by more than 9,300 in 2020 to around 1.4 million. The decrease — seven-tenths of 1% from the year before — was a surprising turnabout for a nation with the oldest population in the world. Watch | When the coronavirus first began spreading early last year, many feared that Japan’s large cohort of older people would make the country especially vulnerable. But case numbers and deaths have stayed much lower than in the United States and Western Europe. As of Tuesday, Japan had recorded just under 7,600 deaths from the virus, and the seven-day average for new cases stood around 1,200. Daily infection numbers have never exceeded 8,000. The United States, by contrast, has recorded more than 500,000 deaths and 28 million infections. Deaths from causes other than COVID-19 have reportedly risen, too, perhaps because people have avoided medical facilities. Life expectancy for Americans fell by a full year in the first six months of 2020, the largest drop since World War II. The most recent Japanese government data does not break down mortality by category, so it is difficult to say with certainty what caused the decrease in deaths. But data from earlier in the year suggests that it was spurred in large part by a drastic decline in respiratory illnesses, a likely side effect of the country’s almost ubiquitous adoption of mask wearing and social distancing. While masks were already a common sight in Japan, over the past year, they have become de rigueur as a virus-fighting measure. The country has also widely adopted other steps to prevent transmission of the virus, including the placement of hand sanitizer at the entrance to virtually every commercial space and workplace, and broad adherence to government recommendations to avoid the “three C’s”: closed spaces, crowded places and close contact with others. One other, albeit small, factor is a decrease in traffic accidents as fewer people took to the roads, especially as the government twice declared states of emergency. Deaths from road accidents dropped nearly 12% in 2020, to 2,839, according to data maintained by the National Police Agency. It was the lowest number since the agency began tracking the data in 1948. Japan is not alone in seeing peripheral benefits from coronavirus measures. Deaths in China fell slightly in the first three months of 2020 outside the virus epicenter of Wuhan, according to a study by the University of Oxford and the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention. While the decrease in deaths in Japan was a welcome development, there were some ominous signs. The country has seen a resurgence in suicides, particularly among women, with just under 4% more people taking their own lives in 2020 than in the previous year. Among women, the increase was nearly 15%. Experts traced the phenomenon to stresses related to the pandemic including job losses, the increased isolation of people sheltering in place and the growing domestic burdens shouldered by women. Japan’s population also continued to contract despite the decline in overall deaths. The country, which began shrinking in 2007 because of falling birthrates and its increasing proportion of older people, lost more than 511,000 people in 2020, a slight acceleration from the previous year. Births fell once again last year, suggesting that the pandemic is likely to speed up Japan’s depopulation. According to government projections, the population, which now stands at 126 million, will fall below 100 million by 2053 and sink to 88 million by 2065.

Deaths fell in Japan last year. How?

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday expressed concern about Chinese unilateral attempts to change status quo in East and South China seas in G7 talks, NHK World reported. He said Japan will say what needs to be said and demand action from Beijing. Leaders of G7 nations had teleconference on Friday just after 11 pm Japan time. This was the first G7 conference that included Suga, Joe Biden and Mario Draghi.

On the coronavirus pandemic, Suga said he has had an unwavering resolve to protect the lives and livelihoods of the people since assuming his post in September. He said that a lot had been learnt last year and his government had implemented what he believed to be the best measures.

Suga said vaccines will be the key to containing infections, adding that fair access in developing countries will be essential.&nbsp;

He called on the G7 to speed up the distribution of vaccines and oppose a protectionist approach to health issues. He also pledged to increase Japan`s contribution to a global framework for purchasing vaccines to 200 million dollars, reported NHK World.

Suga also expressed his determination to hold the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer. He said he will work with the International Olympic Committee to realize a safe Game. He called on the other countries for support. Suga said the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics can serve as proof that mankind has overcome the coronavirus.

(With ANI inputs)

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday expressed concern about Chinese unilateral attempts to change status quo in East and South China seas in G7 talks, NHK World reported.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Saturday expressed concern about Chinese unilateral attempts to change status quo in East and South China seas in G7 talks, NHK World reported. He said Japan will say what needs to be said and demand action from Beijing. Leaders of G7 nations had teleconference on Friday just after 11 pm Japan time. This was the first G7 conference that included Suga, Joe Biden and Mario Draghi. On the coronavirus pandemic, Suga said he has had an unwavering resolve to protect the lives and livelihoods of the people since assuming his post in September. He said that a lot had been learnt last year and his government had implemented what he believed to be the best measures. Suga said vaccines will be the key to containing infections, adding that fair access in developing countries will be essential. He called on the G7 to speed up the distribution of vaccines and oppose a protectionist approach to health issues. He also pledged to increase Japan`s contribution to a global framework for purchasing vaccines to 200 million dollars, reported NHK World. Suga also expressed his determination to hold the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games this summer. He said he will work with the International Olympic Committee to realize a safe Game. He called on the other countries for support. Suga said the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics can serve as proof that mankind has overcome the coronavirus. (With ANI inputs)

Japan expresses concern about Chinese attempts in East, South China Sea

Sri Lanka has decided to re-acquire 99 oil tanks, which were leased out to Indian Oil for 30 years in 2003. The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka says the reports are incorrect but there's a pattern.&nbsp;

Recently, Sri Lanka halted a port project involving India and Japan. US withdrew its aid offer because Colombo wasn't using the funds. While Chinese investments are being steadily approved. &nbsp;

Reports say India was supposed to upgrade and commission the world war era tanks. But talks remained stalled for more than a decade. Then in 2015, discussions revived when Prime Minister Modi visited Sri Lanka. By 2017, the two sides had a roadmap but the project never really took off.&nbsp;

The Indian High Commission issued a statement on Thursday, claiming that there is no truth in these reports. Indian diplomats say both sides will explore ways to jointly develop and operate the facility.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Last month, Colombo had scrapped a trilateral agreement with India and Japan. This was for the development of the eastern container terminal at the Colombo Port.&nbsp;

Apparently, the project had received strong opposition from trade unions across Sri Lanka. This is despite the fact that Colombo was supposed to hold the majority stake.&nbsp;

It's not just Indian projects that Sri Lanka is scrapping. Even the United States suffered a setback this year. It withdrew $480 million in infrastructure aid to Colombo because Sri Lanka said it wasn't keen on using it. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The only country that seems to be getting a red-carpet welcome in Colombo is China. Within weeks of rejecting US aid, the Sri Lankan cabinet cleared a Chinese energy project. It is quite close to Indian borders.&nbsp;

A Chinese company has won the contract to set up hybrid wind and solar energy projects off the northern Jaffna peninsula on three islands, which are barely 50 kilometers away from the Tamil Nadu coast.&nbsp;

Reports say India had lodged a strong protest with Sri Lanka. It happened days before the Colombo Port deal was cancelled.&nbsp;

The Chinese seems to be deepening their influence in Sri Lanka under the Rajapaksa Government.&nbsp;

Before the energy deal, they secured several major projects. It includes a $13 billion city on Sri Lanka's sea front, a new Chinese factory in Hambantota, a $300 million tire plan for the Shandong Haohua tire, a $one billion road from Colombo to Kandy and $300 million coal-based power plant in Norochcholai. Colombo has given green-light to all these projects and pushed itself further under Chinese debt. &nbsp;&nbsp;

India hasn't given up though. Reports say India has offered a grant of $12 million to displace the Chinese company for the energy project off the Jaffna peninsula. A group of Tamil parties have also voiced their opposition to Chinese involvement.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka has decided to re-acquire 99 oil tanks, which were leased out to Indian Oil for 30 years in 2003. The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka says the reports are incorrect but there's a pattern.

Sri Lanka has decided to re-acquire 99 oil tanks, which were leased out to Indian Oil for 30 years in 2003. The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka says the reports are incorrect but there's a pattern. Recently, Sri Lanka halted a port project involving India and Japan. US withdrew its aid offer because Colombo wasn't using the funds. While Chinese investments are being steadily approved. Reports say India was supposed to upgrade and commission the world war era tanks. But talks remained stalled for more than a decade. Then in 2015, discussions revived when Prime Minister Modi visited Sri Lanka. By 2017, the two sides had a roadmap but the project never really took off. The Indian High Commission issued a statement on Thursday, claiming that there is no truth in these reports. Indian diplomats say both sides will explore ways to jointly develop and operate the facility. × Last month, Colombo had scrapped a trilateral agreement with India and Japan. This was for the development of the eastern container terminal at the Colombo Port. Apparently, the project had received strong opposition from trade unions across Sri Lanka. This is despite the fact that Colombo was supposed to hold the majority stake. It's not just Indian projects that Sri Lanka is scrapping. Even the United States suffered a setback this year. It withdrew $480 million in infrastructure aid to Colombo because Sri Lanka said it wasn't keen on using it. The only country that seems to be getting a red-carpet welcome in Colombo is China. Within weeks of rejecting US aid, the Sri Lankan cabinet cleared a Chinese energy project. It is quite close to Indian borders. A Chinese company has won the contract to set up hybrid wind and solar energy projects off the northern Jaffna peninsula on three islands, which are barely 50 kilometers away from the Tamil Nadu coast. Reports say India had lodged a strong protest with Sri Lanka. It happened days before the Colombo Port deal was cancelled. The Chinese seems to be deepening their influence in Sri Lanka under the Rajapaksa Government. Before the energy deal, they secured several major projects. It includes a $13 billion city on Sri Lanka's sea front, a new Chinese factory in Hambantota, a $300 million tire plan for the Shandong Haohua tire, a $one billion road from Colombo to Kandy and $300 million coal-based power plant in Norochcholai. Colombo has given green-light to all these projects and pushed itself further under Chinese debt. India hasn't given up though. Reports say India has offered a grant of $12 million to displace the Chinese company for the energy project off the Jaffna peninsula. A group of Tamil parties have also voiced their opposition to Chinese involvement.

Is Sri Lanka falling to Chinese debt trap?

A website developer in Japan has curated a platform highlighting neighbourhoods that have 'noisy children'. The platform is being accused of fuelling intolerance. WION's Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: Japanese website developer maps areas with 'annoying' kids

A mapping website that shows areas in Japan with noisy children, loud gossipers and other annoying people has drawn criticism as promoting intolerance and providing an outlet for disgruntled residents seeking to lash out at their neighbors.

The Dorozoku Map (Road tribe map) site is designed for people who want to live in quiet environments.

The map identifies more than 6,000 locations across Japan where you'd be likely to encounter noisy kids or adults.

“Dorozoku” has become an online term that refers to children and adults who are loud in public as well as trespassers.

On the site, clicking on the icons reveals the nature of the nuisance, from children "playing noisily with balls" to adults engaging in marathon gossip sessions.

But the site's operator is now under fire, and is being accused of fomenting intolerance of children who are only doing what comes naturally.

It's also said that Japan needs many more young people if its economy is to survive in the coming decades.

A mapping website that shows areas in Japan with noisy children, loud gossipers and other annoying people has drawn criticism as promoting intolerance and providing an outlet for disgruntled residents seeking to lash out at their neighbors.

A mapping website that shows areas in Japan with noisy children, loud gossipers and other annoying people has drawn criticism as promoting intolerance and providing an outlet for disgruntled residents seeking to lash out at their neighbors. The Dorozoku Map (Road tribe map) site is designed for people who want to live in quiet environments. The map identifies more than 6,000 locations across Japan where you'd be likely to encounter noisy kids or adults. “Dorozoku” has become an online term that refers to children and adults who are loud in public as well as trespassers. On the site, clicking on the icons reveals the nature of the nuisance, from children "playing noisily with balls" to adults engaging in marathon gossip sessions. But the site's operator is now under fire, and is being accused of fomenting intolerance of children who are only doing what comes naturally. It's also said that Japan needs many more young people if its economy is to survive in the coming decades.

Japan map identifies areas known for noisy neighbours, draws criticism

E484K is the new variant of coronavirus which is found in Japan. Variants of this new strain is claimed to have come from overseas while 2 fresh cases also have been found at the airport. Talking about COVID-19, Japan has till now 400,000 cases of the epidemic and over 7000 deaths.

Japan: New Strain of COVID-19 found at the airport

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday. The meet comes almost around a month since new US President Joe Biden took charge and shows a reaffirmation of Washinton's approach on Quad and Indo Pacific visit.

Myanmar was the key focus of the meet with separate read-outs from India, Japan, and the US mentioning it. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "In the discussion pertaining to recent developments in Myanmar, the upholding of rule of law and the democratic transition was reiterated by India."

The country witnessed a coup on February 1 with the military overthrowing an elected government. The country has since seen several protests and has been a cause of concern globally as well.

The US State Department release said, "The Ministers discussed.... the urgent need to restore the democratically elected government in Burma, and the priority of strengthening democratic resilience in the broader region."

The US refers to Myanmar as Burma. The name of the country was officially changed to Myanmar in 1989 by the military government but remains a globally contested issue.

The Quad meeting comes amidst aggressive china with quad readouts obliquely mentioning it with calls for "advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region, including support for freedom of navigation and territorial integrity."

The MEA added, "The Ministers emphasised their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas and peaceful resolution of disputes."

The Covid cooperation was another factor as last year saw Quad plus meet at foreign secretaries' level meeting on a regular basis to discuss the issue.

The Indian read out said, "They expressed their commitment to cooperate in addressing this challenge, enhancing access to affordable vaccines, medicines and medical equipment. India’s efforts at providing vaccines to 74 countries was recognised and appreciated."

Amid the pandemic, India has sent Covid vaccines to more than 20 countries in the region, barring Pakistan.

Quad FMs had met last year in Tokyo in a physical meeting. The first Quad meet happened in New York in 2019 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday.

The foreign ministers of Quad countries -- US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Japan FM Motegi Toshimitsu, Australian FM Marise Payne and EAM Dr S Jaishankar -- spoke for the third time on Thursday. The meet comes almost around a month since new US President Joe Biden took charge and shows a reaffirmation of Washinton's approach on Quad and Indo Pacific visit. Myanmar was the key focus of the meet with separate read-outs from India, Japan, and the US mentioning it. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "In the discussion pertaining to recent developments in Myanmar, the upholding of rule of law and the democratic transition was reiterated by India." The country witnessed a coup on February 1 with the military overthrowing an elected government. The country has since seen several protests and has been a cause of concern globally as well. The US State Department release said, "The Ministers discussed.... the urgent need to restore the democratically elected government in Burma, and the priority of strengthening democratic resilience in the broader region." The US refers to Myanmar as Burma. The name of the country was officially changed to Myanmar in 1989 by the military government but remains a globally contested issue. The Quad meeting comes amidst aggressive china with quad readouts obliquely mentioning it with calls for "advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific region, including support for freedom of navigation and territorial integrity." The MEA added, "The Ministers emphasised their commitment to upholding a rules-based international order, underpinned by respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty, rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas and peaceful resolution of disputes." The Covid cooperation was another factor as last year saw Quad plus meet at foreign secretaries' level meeting on a regular basis to discuss the issue. The Indian read out said, "They expressed their commitment to cooperate in addressing this challenge, enhancing access to affordable vaccines, medicines and medical equipment. India’s efforts at providing vaccines to 74 countries was recognised and appreciated." Amid the pandemic, India has sent Covid vaccines to more than 20 countries in the region, barring Pakistan. Quad FMs had met last year in Tokyo in a physical meeting. The first Quad meet happened in New York in 2019 on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

Quad FMs meet for third time; India calls for upholding rule of law in Myanmar

The US, Japan, Australia, and India will hold virtual Quadrilateral Security Dialogue or Quad meet. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be speaking to his counterparts as part of efforts to balance China’s growing military and economic power.

US to hold virtual Quad meet with Australia, India and Japan

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China.&nbsp;

The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

Watch |

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"These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/quad-potential-bulwark-against-chinas-increasing-activity-in-the-indo-pacific-364376">Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific</a>

The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region.&nbsp;

Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden </a>that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing.&nbsp;

The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot."

Recently Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.&nbsp;

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday.

The United States on Wednesday announced talks with Australia, Japan and India to further boost the "Quad" alliance despite warnings from China. The US Secretary of State Antony Blinken will speak with the foreign ministers of the three countries with coronavirus pandemic and climate change being on the agenda, the State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters on Wednesday. Watch | "These discussions with the Quad foreign ministers is critical to advancing our shared goals of a free and open Indo-Pacific and rising to the defining challenges of our times," Price said. Also read | Quad: Potential bulwark against China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific The Quadrilateral alliance, commonly known as "Quad", was launched in 2007 to balance China's rise in the region. Despite the initial caution, Quad in recent years, particularly in the last year has grown, something that has angered Beijing. Earlier this month, China's state-run Global Times warned US President Joe Biden that renewing Quad would be a "serious strategic blunder" and may spark "a severe strategic confrontation" with Beijing. The newspaper in an expert's commentary also tried to put a lot of pressure on India, saying India has the power to end the alliance and asked the country to not "completely tie itself to the US' anti-China chariot." Recently Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Biden talked in a phone call in which the two leaders agreed to strengthen the security in the Indo-Pacific region.

US to hold talks with 'Quad' partners despite China pressure

The Quad grouping makes sense, but to make a difference it needs to speak in one voice. The alliance has informally existed for 13 long years but seems to have restricted itself to mere posturing. WION's Palki Sharma says it's time the Quad become proactive and not reactive.

Gravitas: Time to turn Quad into a formal alliance?

Vaccine rollout has begin for medical staff at a Tokyo Medical center in Japan. President of Tokyo medical center ,Kazuhiro took the first vaccine jab to encourage others to do the same. Health workers are the first ones to get vaccinated , there are around 100 centers administered by health ministry for vaccinating 40000 medical workers first.

Mass vaccination drive begins in Japan

The sentiment index for manufacturers rose to 3 from minus 1 in the previous month, led by chemicals and manufactured food.

Japan's factory mood turns positive for first time since 2019

Japan launched its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus vaccination </a>programme on Wednesday, five months ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, as the World Health Organization reported a fall in new cases around the world.

The same day, Australia and New Zealand ended snap lockdowns after they successfully brought small outbreaks under control in just days -- suggesting that despite their unpopularity, movement restrictions remain vital tools against the pandemic.&nbsp;

Japan kicked off its inoculation drive at a Tokyo hospital, with a plan to initially give Pfizer-BioNTech shots to 40,000 healthcare workers.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-changes-syringe-emoji-in-support-of-coronavirus-vaccine-drive-364184" hreflang="en">Apple changes 'syringe' emoji in support of coronavirus vaccine drive</a>

"Hopefully vaccinations... can change the situation here," nurse Rino Yoshida told national broadcaster NHK after she got one of the first shots.

Japan is battling a much more limited outbreak compared with hard-hit countries such as the United States and Britain, but its response is being closely watched around the world as doubts swirl over the postponed Tokyo Olympics, due to start July 23.

Organisers have outlined measures they say will keep the Games safe even without requiring participants to be vaccinated or quarantined on arrival.

But there are fears among the Japanese public and experts that the precautions may not be enough for a global event, even as the WHO on Tuesday reported a slowing of the pandemic.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-tried-to-hack-pfizer-to-obtain-vaccine-technology-report-364009" hreflang="en">North Korea tried to hack Pfizer to obtain vaccine technology: Report</a>

New infections worldwide fell by 16 per cent last week, while the number of new deaths also dropped 10 per cent week-on-week, based on figures up to Sunday.

"The fire is not out, but we have reduced its size," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Monday.

Lockdowns end in Australia, New Zealand

With infections topping 109 million and more than 2.4 million deaths, the pandemic has devastated the global economy, and populations are growing increasingly frustrated with financially painful restrictions that authorities and experts say are necessary to fight the virus.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-formally-approves-its-first-covid-vaccine-363566" hreflang="en">Japan formally approves its first Covid vaccine</a>

Among the countries that have successfully deployed such measures is Australia, where stay-at-home measures for six million people in Victoria state were to be lifted late Wednesday after a snap five-day lockdown brought an outbreak under control.

"If we had been open throughout this outbreak... total case numbers would be much, much higher and it is a certainty that I would not be reporting zero cases today," said Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews.

Neighbouring New Zealand, widely praised for its Covid-19 strategy, also ended a snap lockdown it had imposed from Monday in its largest city Auckland after three community cases emerged.&nbsp;

These measures sharply contrast with Europe, where restrictions have been less rigorous through the pandemic, and tightening them has often been politically difficult.

The Dutch government's nationwide curfew survived a bitter legal challenge on Tuesday, from an anti-restrictions group that promotes baseless conspiracy theories about the pandemic.

'Not safe until everyone is safe'

Frustration and rancour have not been limited to restrictions though, with poorer nations and the WHO warning against wealthy countries dominating vaccine supplies.

President Joe Biden told a CNN town hall Tuesday that the United States -- the worst-hit nation in the world -- would have "600 million doses, enough to vaccinate every American".

Mexico's Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard had earlier said his government would complain to the United Nations about hoarding and inequality in the global inoculation drive.

And Nigeria's Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the new head of the World Trade Organization, said the body can help ensure universal access to the jabs.

"It's really in the self-interest of every country to see everyone vaccinated because you're not safe until everyone is safe," she told AFP in an interview.

Mass inoculation projects have been made more complicated with the emergence of new coronavirus variants, raising concerns about the efficacy of vaccines against them.

India confirmed Tuesday it had detected four cases of the more contagious variant first detected in South Africa, which has spread to many countries.

The European Union will launch a programme to produce vaccines against future strains, the bloc's leader Ursula von der Leyen told French daily Les Echos on Tuesday.

"The virus has evolved and will continue to evolve," she said.

"It is important we prepare for mutations."

Japan launched its coronavirus vaccination programme on Wednesday, five months ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, as the World Health Organization reported a fall in new cases around the world.

Japan launched its coronavirus vaccination programme on Wednesday, five months ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, as the World Health Organization reported a fall in new cases around the world. The same day, Australia and New Zealand ended snap lockdowns after they successfully brought small outbreaks under control in just days -- suggesting that despite their unpopularity, movement restrictions remain vital tools against the pandemic. Japan kicked off its inoculation drive at a Tokyo hospital, with a plan to initially give Pfizer-BioNTech shots to 40,000 healthcare workers. Also read| Apple changes 'syringe' emoji in support of coronavirus vaccine drive "Hopefully vaccinations... can change the situation here," nurse Rino Yoshida told national broadcaster NHK after she got one of the first shots. Japan is battling a much more limited outbreak compared with hard-hit countries such as the United States and Britain, but its response is being closely watched around the world as doubts swirl over the postponed Tokyo Olympics, due to start July 23. Organisers have outlined measures they say will keep the Games safe even without requiring participants to be vaccinated or quarantined on arrival. But there are fears among the Japanese public and experts that the precautions may not be enough for a global event, even as the WHO on Tuesday reported a slowing of the pandemic. Also read| North Korea tried to hack Pfizer to obtain vaccine technology: Report New infections worldwide fell by 16 per cent last week, while the number of new deaths also dropped 10 per cent week-on-week, based on figures up to Sunday. "The fire is not out, but we have reduced its size," WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said Monday. Lockdowns end in Australia, New Zealand With infections topping 109 million and more than 2.4 million deaths, the pandemic has devastated the global economy, and populations are growing increasingly frustrated with financially painful restrictions that authorities and experts say are necessary to fight the virus. Also read| Japan formally approves its first Covid vaccine Among the countries that have successfully deployed such measures is Australia, where stay-at-home measures for six million people in Victoria state were to be lifted late Wednesday after a snap five-day lockdown brought an outbreak under control. "If we had been open throughout this outbreak... total case numbers would be much, much higher and it is a certainty that I would not be reporting zero cases today," said Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews. Neighbouring New Zealand, widely praised for its Covid-19 strategy, also ended a snap lockdown it had imposed from Monday in its largest city Auckland after three community cases emerged. These measures sharply contrast with Europe, where restrictions have been less rigorous through the pandemic, and tightening them has often been politically difficult. The Dutch government's nationwide curfew survived a bitter legal challenge on Tuesday, from an anti-restrictions group that promotes baseless conspiracy theories about the pandemic. 'Not safe until everyone is safe' Frustration and rancour have not been limited to restrictions though, with poorer nations and the WHO warning against wealthy countries dominating vaccine supplies. President Joe Biden told a CNN town hall Tuesday that the United States -- the worst-hit nation in the world -- would have "600 million doses, enough to vaccinate every American". Mexico's Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard had earlier said his government would complain to the United Nations about hoarding and inequality in the global inoculation drive. And Nigeria's Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the new head of the World Trade Organization, said the body can help ensure universal access to the jabs. "It's really in the self-interest of every country to see everyone vaccinated because you're not safe until everyone is safe," she told AFP in an interview. Mass inoculation projects have been made more complicated with the emergence of new coronavirus variants, raising concerns about the efficacy of vaccines against them. India confirmed Tuesday it had detected four cases of the more contagious variant first detected in South Africa, which has spread to many countries. The European Union will launch a programme to produce vaccines against future strains, the bloc's leader Ursula von der Leyen told French daily Les Echos on Tuesday. "The virus has evolved and will continue to evolve," she said. "It is important we prepare for mutations."

Ahead of Tokyo Olympics, Japan starts vaccinations as new coronavirus cases, deaths drop

Japan has appointed a 'Minister of Loneliness'. It is not the first country to do so. WION's Palki Sharma tells you which other countries have similar cabinet portfolios.

Gravitas: Japan's Minister of Happiness

The Liberal Democratic Party of Japan recently urged more women to show up to their meetings. But there’s a catch - women are not allowed to talk during these meetings

In response to criticism about its board being dominated by men, the party proposed allowing five female lawmakers to join in on the board meetings as observers. Only two of the party’s 12-member board members are women. In addition, only three of its 25-member general council members are women.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/your-story-japans-ruling-party-wants-women-but-not-their-views-at-meetings-364334/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Recently, sexist comments by former Tokyo Olympics chief Yoshiro Mori sparked outrage, putting focus on gender disparity in the country.

As part of this move, female LDP members would be allowed to see how the decisions are made during key meetings. The party’s Secretary General Toshihiro Nikai said that he has heard criticism about the party's elected board being dominated by men.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/japan-appoints-minister-of-loneliness-to-fight-pandemic-driven-isolation-364026" hreflang="en">Japan appoints 'Minister of Loneliness' to fight pandemic-driven isolation</a>

"It is important to fully understand what kind of discussions are happening," he said during a news conference on Tuesday. "Take a look, is what it is about”, he added. 
 
The observing women would not be allowed to speak during the meetings, but may submit their opinions separately to the secretariat office, as reported by Nikkei newspaper.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/sports/60-percent-say-yoshiro-mori-unfit-to-serve-as-tokyo-2020-chief-japan-poll-361981" hreflang="en">60 percent say Yoshiro Mori unfit to serve as Tokyo 2020 chief: Japan poll</a>

Out of the 153 countries on the World Economic Forum’s 2020 Global Gender Gap Index, Japan is ranked 121, making it among the worst-performing economically advanced countries. The country has scored poorly on women’s participation in the economy, as well as in terms of political empowerment.

The Liberal Democratic Party of Japan recently urged more women to show up to their meetings. But there’s a catch - women are not allowed to talk during these meetings In response to criticism about its board being dominated by men, the party proposed allowing five female lawmakers to join in on the board meetings as observers.

The Liberal Democratic Party of Japan recently urged more women to show up to their meetings. But there’s a catch - women are not allowed to talk during these meetings In response to criticism about its board being dominated by men, the party proposed allowing five female lawmakers to join in on the board meetings as observers. Only two of the party’s 12-member board members are women. In addition, only three of its 25-member general council members are women. Recently, sexist comments by former Tokyo Olympics chief Yoshiro Mori sparked outrage, putting focus on gender disparity in the country. As part of this move, female LDP members would be allowed to see how the decisions are made during key meetings. The party’s Secretary General Toshihiro Nikai said that he has heard criticism about the party's elected board being dominated by men. Also read: Japan appoints 'Minister of Loneliness' to fight pandemic-driven isolation "It is important to fully understand what kind of discussions are happening," he said during a news conference on Tuesday. "Take a look, is what it is about”, he added. The observing women would not be allowed to speak during the meetings, but may submit their opinions separately to the secretariat office, as reported by Nikkei newspaper. Also read: 60 percent say Yoshiro Mori unfit to serve as Tokyo 2020 chief: Japan poll Out of the 153 countries on the World Economic Forum’s 2020 Global Gender Gap Index, Japan is ranked 121, making it among the worst-performing economically advanced countries. The country has scored poorly on women’s participation in the economy, as well as in terms of political empowerment.

Japan's ruling party will allow women to attend meetings, as long as they don't talk

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Friday launched a cabinet aimed at easing loneliness and stress among its citizens. Suicide rates across the country have increased, marking the first rise in 11 years, prompting officials to find new measures to ease the pressure on people.

Owing to the restrictions in place to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, social gatherings in the country have remained largely restricted. Suga on Friday tapped Tetsushi Sakamoto for the job, who is expected to coordinate work across different ministries and agencies.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-japans-rising-suicide-rate-346567/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"Women especially are feeling more isolated and face increasing suicide rates," Nikkie Asia quoted Suga as saying to Sakamoto.&nbsp;"I'd like you to examine the issue and put forward a comprehensive strategy", he reportedly said further.

Suga also focused on the rise in suicides especially among women, and Sakamoto is now expected to curate a team to host an emergency forum in a bid to come up with a plan this month.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-japans-minister-of-happiness-364132/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Sakamoto told reporters after the meeting that he hopes to promote activities aimed at preventing loneliness and social isolation. 
 
The country had one of the world's highest suicide rates, which changed over the last decade. 20,919 people in Japan died by suicide in 2020, marking a 3.7 per cent surge compared to 2019.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/pandemic-raises-japan-suicide-rate-after-decade-of-decline-358517" hreflang="en">Pandemic raises Japan suicide rate after decade of decline</a>

Japan is not the only country to come up with such measures. In 2018, the United Kingdom government created a cabinet of ministers to fight loneliness, especially among its elderly.

But in Japan, the issue is not age-specific and affects people among all age groups.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Friday launched a cabinet aimed at easing loneliness and stress among its citizens. Suicide rates across the country have increased, marking the first rise in 11 years, prompting officials to find new measures to ease the pressure on people.

Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Friday launched a cabinet aimed at easing loneliness and stress among its citizens. Suicide rates across the country have increased, marking the first rise in 11 years, prompting officials to find new measures to ease the pressure on people. Owing to the restrictions in place to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, social gatherings in the country have remained largely restricted. Suga on Friday tapped Tetsushi Sakamoto for the job, who is expected to coordinate work across different ministries and agencies. "Women especially are feeling more isolated and face increasing suicide rates," Nikkie Asia quoted Suga as saying to Sakamoto. "I'd like you to examine the issue and put forward a comprehensive strategy", he reportedly said further. Suga also focused on the rise in suicides especially among women, and Sakamoto is now expected to curate a team to host an emergency forum in a bid to come up with a plan this month. Sakamoto told reporters after the meeting that he hopes to promote activities aimed at preventing loneliness and social isolation. The country had one of the world's highest suicide rates, which changed over the last decade. 20,919 people in Japan died by suicide in 2020, marking a 3.7 per cent surge compared to 2019. Also read: Pandemic raises Japan suicide rate after decade of decline Japan is not the only country to come up with such measures. In 2018, the United Kingdom government created a cabinet of ministers to fight loneliness, especially among its elderly. But in Japan, the issue is not age-specific and affects people among all age groups.

Japan appoints 'Minister of Loneliness' to fight pandemic-driven isolation

After a sexism row sparked by Tokyo Olympics chief’s saying women talked too much at meetings, Japan’s ruling party wants women to attend key meetings but only if they do not talk. Under the new proposals, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) will allow five female legislators to join the party’s main meetings as observers.

Your Story: Japan's ruling party wants women but not their views at meetings

Exactly 157 days from now, Japan will host one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world which is the Olympics. Japan has started its vaccination drive and the question remains will Tokyo achieve its target or not.

Japan kicks off its COVID-19 vaccination drive

Millions of COVID-19 vaccine doses are going to get wasted in large as Japan struggles to secure special syringes. Production has been impacted at a large scale while manufacturers are looking for ways to ramp up production of the syringes. The country signed a contract with Pfizer of 144 million doses for 72 million people.

Japan faces shortage of special syringes

External demand, or exports minus imports, added 1.0 percentage point to the fourth-quarter GDP growth rate.

Japan’s economy performed better than expected in last quarter

Japanese government spoke person has said that 12 people was seriously injured after a 7.3 magnitude earthquake rocked the Fukushima coast on Saturday. Japans' chief secretary Katsunobu Kato had said that 141 People sustain minor injuries.

Your Story: Dozens hurt in a 7.3 magnitude earthquake in Japan

Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei index jumped nearly two percent Monday on hopes for business recovery, closing above the psychologically important 30,000 mark for the first time in more than three decades.

The Nikkei 225 index rose 1.91 percent, or 564.08 points, to 30,084.15, the highest close since 1990.

The broader Topix index advanced 1.04 percent, or 20.06 points, to 1,953.94.

"The 30,000 mark is symbolic but it's still a waypoint," said Toshikazu Horiuchi, a broker at IwaiCosmo Securities.

"Market sentiment has been supported by hopes for business recovery ahead of the nation's first vaccination," Horiuchi told AFP.

The coronavirus vaccine rollout is scheduled to start as early as Wednesday in Japan for healthcare professionals.

"Hopes for stimulus and monetary easing are also high, which helped bolster positive sentiment, but profit-taking could emerge at this level as the market is overheating," he added.

Masayuki Kubota, chief strategist at Rakuten Securities, said: "The Nikkei index is climbing as central banks in Japan, the United States and Europe keep their massive monetary easing policies in place because of the pandemic."

Ahead of the opening bell, the government said Japan's economy shrank in 2020 for the first time in more than a decade as it was battered by the coronavirus but the contraction was less than expected.

"The market largely shrugged off the GDP figures, which were already factored in," Horiuchi said.

The dollar fetched 105.02 yen in Asian afternoon trade, against 104.91 yen in New York late Friday.

Investors were paying attention to the impact of a 7.3-magnitude earthquake, which hit northeastern Japan late Saturday as news reports said more than 150 people were injured and shinkansen bullet train services were suspended.

"There was a chilling moment after the powerful quake in the Tohoku region this weekend, but the impact on the market seems to be limited," Okasan Online Securities said.

In Tokyo trading, SoftBank Group surged 2.12 percent to 10,005 yen after releasing strong earnings last week, while Uniqlo casual wear chain operator Fast Retailing jumped 4.09 percent to 99,460 yen.

Nissan plunged 2.83 percent to 609.9 yen following a news report that Apple had approached it in recent months about self-driving cars, which did not move forward. Nissan denied it was in talks with the US tech giant.

Toyota rose 0.51 percent to 8,456 yen with Honda up 1.09 percent at 3,052 yen.

Online mall giant and mobile carrier Rakuten plunged 6.48 percent to 1,110 yen after it reported a massive annual loss last week.

Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei index jumped nearly two percent Monday on hopes for business recovery, closing above the psychologically important 30,000 mark for the first time in more than three decades.

Tokyo's benchmark Nikkei index jumped nearly two percent Monday on hopes for business recovery, closing above the psychologically important 30,000 mark for the first time in more than three decades. The Nikkei 225 index rose 1.91 percent, or 564.08 points, to 30,084.15, the highest close since 1990. The broader Topix index advanced 1.04 percent, or 20.06 points, to 1,953.94. "The 30,000 mark is symbolic but it's still a waypoint," said Toshikazu Horiuchi, a broker at IwaiCosmo Securities. "Market sentiment has been supported by hopes for business recovery ahead of the nation's first vaccination," Horiuchi told AFP. The coronavirus vaccine rollout is scheduled to start as early as Wednesday in Japan for healthcare professionals. "Hopes for stimulus and monetary easing are also high, which helped bolster positive sentiment, but profit-taking could emerge at this level as the market is overheating," he added. Masayuki Kubota, chief strategist at Rakuten Securities, said: "The Nikkei index is climbing as central banks in Japan, the United States and Europe keep their massive monetary easing policies in place because of the pandemic." Ahead of the opening bell, the government said Japan's economy shrank in 2020 for the first time in more than a decade as it was battered by the coronavirus but the contraction was less than expected. "The market largely shrugged off the GDP figures, which were already factored in," Horiuchi said. The dollar fetched 105.02 yen in Asian afternoon trade, against 104.91 yen in New York late Friday. Investors were paying attention to the impact of a 7.3-magnitude earthquake, which hit northeastern Japan late Saturday as news reports said more than 150 people were injured and shinkansen bullet train services were suspended. "There was a chilling moment after the powerful quake in the Tohoku region this weekend, but the impact on the market seems to be limited," Okasan Online Securities said. In Tokyo trading, SoftBank Group surged 2.12 percent to 10,005 yen after releasing strong earnings last week, while Uniqlo casual wear chain operator Fast Retailing jumped 4.09 percent to 99,460 yen. Nissan plunged 2.83 percent to 609.9 yen following a news report that Apple had approached it in recent months about self-driving cars, which did not move forward. Nissan denied it was in talks with the US tech giant. Toyota rose 0.51 percent to 8,456 yen with Honda up 1.09 percent at 3,052 yen. Online mall giant and mobile carrier Rakuten plunged 6.48 percent to 1,110 yen after it reported a massive annual loss last week.

Tokyo's Nikkei closes above 30,000, first time since 1990

Japan’s economy rebounded sharply in the last three months of 2020, government data showed Monday, extending its recovery from the coronavirus’ devastating effect in the first half of the year.

But the growth was fragile and could be easily disrupted, analysts warned, at least in the short term. A second state of emergency declared at the end of last year is likely to drag the economy down again, and — as with many countries — it will most likely take years for certain business sectors, such as tourism, and consumer confidence to recover.

Japan’s economy, the world’s third largest after the United States and China, grew 3% during the October to December period, for an annualized growth rate of 12.7%. It was the country’s second consecutive quarter of growth.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japans-economy-performed-better-than-expected-in-last-quarter-363682">WATCH|</a>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japans-economy-performed-better-than-expected-in-last-quarter-363682/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The economy had jumped 5.3% in the fiscal third quarter as the country emerged from a national emergency and regained a semblance of normalcy.

“The biggest drivers of this quarter’s growth were exports and consumer spending,” said Toshihiro Nagahama, senior economist at the Dai-Ichi Life Research Institute, as economies released pent-up demand for Japanese goods that had built up during the early months of the pandemic.

Japan’s growth last quarter was “a bit of a mechanical rebound from an unnatural sort of drop” created by global lockdowns and skittish consumers, said Izumi Devalier, the chief Japan economist at Bank of America Merrill Lynch.

But the surge in exports over the past months, driven by growth in capital goods and the tech sector, has “been incredible” she said.

The Japanese economy had entered 2020 in a weakened state brought about by a rise in the national consumption tax, a stark drop in trade with China and a devastating typhoon. The pandemic then struck a major blow. As other economies crashed, Japan’s shrank in its worst performance since 1955, when the country began using gross domestic product to measure its economy.

But thanks in large part to the country’s efforts to keep the pandemic under control, Japan avoided the worst of the economic damage that savaged the United States and much of Europe.

This fall, while many consumers in the West sheltered in place, people in Japan were traveling, eating out and going to movies. One film, “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train,” set a domestic box-office record, outpacing the former champion in a few short months. Government subsidies for travel lifted domestic tourism, although such travel may have also spread the virus.

At the same time, huge government stimulus efforts helped keep people in jobs and companies in business. Japan’s unemployment rate stood at just 2.9% by the end of December versus 2.1% at the same time the year before. Bankruptcies actually dropped 6.5% in 2020, according to Teikoku Databank, a credit research company.

In contrast to the economic damage, the country’s stock market is riding high, benefiting from monetary policies that have kept interest rates ultra low and pumped money into equities markets. On Monday morning, the Nikkei hit 30,000 for the first time since Japan’s economic bubble burst 30 years ago.

Still, the past two quarters of growth did not make up for the damage wreaked by the pandemic. The economy ended down 4.8% for the year, the first annual contraction since 2009, when the country was suffering from the fallout of the global financial crisis.

While people in Japan are not facing the same level of short-term economic peril as those in the United States, growth is expected to contract again in the first three months of this year.

After a steep rise in daily infection counts, Japan declared a second, albeit more limited, state of emergency at the beginning of January. Initially announced for one month, the edict was extended through early March partly in response to the appearance of new, more contagious variants of the coronavirus.

“Because of the emergency declaration, consumer spending, particularly on services, is going to fall” in the first three months of the year, said Akane Yamaguchi, an economist at the Daiwa Institute of Research.

But, she said, the damage will not be nearly as severe as last spring, when lockdowns destroyed demand for exports and Japan’s national emergency extended across the whole country.

In the longer term, as the world continues to grapple with the pandemic, there will likely be “repeated shocks on consumption” as case numbers rise and fall while exports will stay strong, said Devalier, of Bank of America.

“I think it’s almost going to be a tale of two economies in 2021,” she said.

Further complicating the economic picture for 2021, Japan has been slow to start vaccinations.

On Sunday, the Pfizer shot became the first to receive approval from Japanese regulators. Frontline health care workers are expected to receive their first doses this week, but it will be months before the public is eligible.

The pandemic’s effects have been much less severe in Japan than in the West. Total deaths are under 7,000, and daily infection levels peaked in early January at around 8,000. But a robust vaccination program could give more people the confidence to return to shops and restaurants, said Nagahama, of Dai-Ichi Life Research.

To get the economy back on track in the long run, “increasing vaccination rates is the only option,” he said. “Without that, any monetary or fiscal measures you take are pointless.”

Japan’s economy rebounded sharply in the last three months of 2020, government data showed Monday, extending its recovery from the coronavirus’ devastating effect in the first half of the year.

Japan’s economy rebounded sharply in the last three months of 2020, government data showed Monday, extending its recovery from the coronavirus’ devastating effect in the first half of the year. But the growth was fragile and could be easily disrupted, analysts warned, at least in the short term. A second state of emergency declared at the end of last year is likely to drag the economy down again, and — as with many countries — it will most likely take years for certain business sectors, such as tourism, and consumer confidence to recover. Japan’s economy, the world’s third largest after the United States and China, grew 3% during the October to December period, for an annualized growth rate of 12.7%. It was the country’s second consecutive quarter of growth. WATCH| The economy had jumped 5.3% in the fiscal third quarter as the country emerged from a national emergency and regained a semblance of normalcy. “The biggest drivers of this quarter’s growth were exports and consumer spending,” said Toshihiro Nagahama, senior economist at the Dai-Ichi Life Research Institute, as economies released pent-up demand for Japanese goods that had built up during the early months of the pandemic. Japan’s growth last quarter was “a bit of a mechanical rebound from an unnatural sort of drop” created by global lockdowns and skittish consumers, said Izumi Devalier, the chief Japan economist at Bank of America Merrill Lynch. But the surge in exports over the past months, driven by growth in capital goods and the tech sector, has “been incredible” she said. The Japanese economy had entered 2020 in a weakened state brought about by a rise in the national consumption tax, a stark drop in trade with China and a devastating typhoon. The pandemic then struck a major blow. As other economies crashed, Japan’s shrank in its worst performance since 1955, when the country began using gross domestic product to measure its economy. But thanks in large part to the country’s efforts to keep the pandemic under control, Japan avoided the worst of the economic damage that savaged the United States and much of Europe. This fall, while many consumers in the West sheltered in place, people in Japan were traveling, eating out and going to movies. One film, “Demon Slayer: Mugen Train,” set a domestic box-office record, outpacing the former champion in a few short months. Government subsidies for travel lifted domestic tourism, although such travel may have also spread the virus. At the same time, huge government stimulus efforts helped keep people in jobs and companies in business. Japan’s unemployment rate stood at just 2.9% by the end of December versus 2.1% at the same time the year before. Bankruptcies actually dropped 6.5% in 2020, according to Teikoku Databank, a credit research company. In contrast to the economic damage, the country’s stock market is riding high, benefiting from monetary policies that have kept interest rates ultra low and pumped money into equities markets. On Monday morning, the Nikkei hit 30,000 for the first time since Japan’s economic bubble burst 30 years ago. Still, the past two quarters of growth did not make up for the damage wreaked by the pandemic. The economy ended down 4.8% for the year, the first annual contraction since 2009, when the country was suffering from the fallout of the global financial crisis. While people in Japan are not facing the same level of short-term economic peril as those in the United States, growth is expected to contract again in the first three months of this year. After a steep rise in daily infection counts, Japan declared a second, albeit more limited, state of emergency at the beginning of January. Initially announced for one month, the edict was extended through early March partly in response to the appearance of new, more contagious variants of the coronavirus. “Because of the emergency declaration, consumer spending, particularly on services, is going to fall” in the first three months of the year, said Akane Yamaguchi, an economist at the Daiwa Institute of Research. But, she said, the damage will not be nearly as severe as last spring, when lockdowns destroyed demand for exports and Japan’s national emergency extended across the whole country. In the longer term, as the world continues to grapple with the pandemic, there will likely be “repeated shocks on consumption” as case numbers rise and fall while exports will stay strong, said Devalier, of Bank of America. “I think it’s almost going to be a tale of two economies in 2021,” she said. Further complicating the economic picture for 2021, Japan has been slow to start vaccinations. On Sunday, the Pfizer shot became the first to receive approval from Japanese regulators. Frontline health care workers are expected to receive their first doses this week, but it will be months before the public is eligible. The pandemic’s effects have been much less severe in Japan than in the West. Total deaths are under 7,000, and daily infection levels peaked in early January at around 8,000. But a robust vaccination program could give more people the confidence to return to shops and restaurants, said Nagahama, of Dai-Ichi Life Research. To get the economy back on track in the long run, “increasing vaccination rates is the only option,” he said. “Without that, any monetary or fiscal measures you take are pointless.”

Japan’s growth rebounds, but virus-related weakness looms

A strong Earthquake of 7.1 magnitudes rocked japan's eastern coast on Saturday, the coast of Fukushima prefecture was the epicenter for the earthquake.

Strong Earthquake of 7.1 magnitude shakes Japan | Fukushima Prefecture

A powerful earthquake that hit Japan on Saturday was an aftershock of the devastating 9.0 magnitude quake that struck the region almost 10 years ago, the national meteorological agency has said.

The USGS said the quake occurred at a depth of 54 kilometres (33 miles) in the Pacific, off Fukushima -- near the epicentre of a 2011 killer quake which triggered a towering tsunami and killed more than 18,000.

No tsunami warning was, however, issued after Saturday's earthquake.

Authorities have spent the past ten years cleaning up the area -- a massive effort that experts say will take another few decades to complete.

According to a CNN report, Saturday's earthquake is a reminder that the events are 2011 are not entirely behind the Fukushima region.

Speaking to reporters, Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said the damage was still being assessed, and asked residents in the affected area to stay indoors and be prepared for aftershocks.

The earthquake triggered landslides and uprooted sections of a major expressway, affecting both prefectures.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/earthquake-of-70-magnitude-strikes-eastern-japan-no-tsunami-alert-363434">Also read | Earthquake of 7.0 magnitude strikes eastern Japan, no tsunami alert</a>

(with inputs)

A powerful earthquake that hit Japan on Saturday was an aftershock of the devastating 9.0 magnitude quake that struck the region almost 10 years ago, the national meteorological agency has said.

A powerful earthquake that hit Japan on Saturday was an aftershock of the devastating 9.0 magnitude quake that struck the region almost 10 years ago, the national meteorological agency has said. The USGS said the quake occurred at a depth of 54 kilometres (33 miles) in the Pacific, off Fukushima -- near the epicentre of a 2011 killer quake which triggered a towering tsunami and killed more than 18,000. No tsunami warning was, however, issued after Saturday's earthquake. Authorities have spent the past ten years cleaning up the area -- a massive effort that experts say will take another few decades to complete. According to a CNN report, Saturday's earthquake is a reminder that the events are 2011 are not entirely behind the Fukushima region. Speaking to reporters, Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said the damage was still being assessed, and asked residents in the affected area to stay indoors and be prepared for aftershocks. The earthquake triggered landslides and uprooted sections of a major expressway, affecting both prefectures. Also read | Earthquake of 7.0 magnitude strikes eastern Japan, no tsunami alert (with inputs)

Saturday tremors in Japan were an 'aftershock' from 2011 quake, report says

An earthquake of 7.0 magnitude struck off the eastern coast of Japan late Saturday.

No tsunami warning was, however, issued, US and Japanese authorities said.

The USGS said the quake occurred at a depth of 54 kilometres (33 miles) in the Pacific, off Fukushima -- near the epicentre of a 2011 killer quake which triggered a towering tsunami and killed more than 18,000.

On Friday, strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar. The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand.

Kyodo news agency reported at least four people injured in the quake, but gave no further details. There were no immediate reports of significant damage.

Saturday's quake was followed by aftershocks, including a 4.7 magnitude jolt.

The government said around 950,000 homes lost power throughout the affected region.

Images shown online and posted on social media showed broken glass at a shop and items spilled off the shelves at a supermarket.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/earthquake-measuring-63-jolts-tajikistan-tremors-felt-in-delhi-and-northern-india-363261">Also read |&nbsp;Earthquake measuring 6.3 jolts Tajikistan, tremors felt in Delhi and northern India</a>

The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 hit Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India.

An earthquake of 7.0 magnitude struck off the eastern coast of Japan late Saturday. No tsunami warning was, however, issued, US and Japanese authorities said. The USGS said the quake occurred at a depth of 54 kilometres (33 miles) in the Pacific, off Fukushima -- near the epicentre of a 2011 killer quake which triggered a towering tsunami and killed more than 18,000.

An earthquake of 7.0 magnitude struck off the eastern coast of Japan late Saturday. No tsunami warning was, however, issued, US and Japanese authorities said. The USGS said the quake occurred at a depth of 54 kilometres (33 miles) in the Pacific, off Fukushima -- near the epicentre of a 2011 killer quake which triggered a towering tsunami and killed more than 18,000. On Friday, strong tremors were felt in several parts of northern India including the capital city of New Delhi and as far as Srinagar. The quake also jolted parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Noida, Punjab, Haryana and Uttarakhand. Kyodo news agency reported at least four people injured in the quake, but gave no further details. There were no immediate reports of significant damage. Saturday's quake was followed by aftershocks, including a 4.7 magnitude jolt. The government said around 950,000 homes lost power throughout the affected region. Images shown online and posted on social media showed broken glass at a shop and items spilled off the shelves at a supermarket. Also read | Earthquake measuring 6.3 jolts Tajikistan, tremors felt in Delhi and northern India The National Centre for Seismology said an earthquake of magnitude 6.3 hit Tajikistan at 10:31 pm, and tremors were felt in northern India.

Earthquake of 7.0 magnitude strikes eastern Japan, no tsunami alert

Millions of people in Japan will not able to receive Pfizer- BioNTech's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine </a>to treat coronavirus as planned as special syringes used to give the dose remains short of supply.&nbsp;

Japan has ordered 144 million shots of Pfizer vaccine to immune 72 million doses, considering that each vial contained six doses.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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Norihisa Tamura, country's health minister said the normal syringes that are used will unable to extract the final dose from a vial, implying about 60 million people will be vaccinated.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-to-proceed-with-planned-phase-1-vaccination-using-jj-362635">South Africa to proceed with planned phase 1 vaccination using J&amp;J</a>

"The syringes used in Japan can only draw five doses," Tamura was quoted as saying by news agency Kyodo.&nbsp;

"We will use all the syringes we have that can draw six doses, but it will, of course, not be enough as more shots are administered."

The government is urging manufacturers to scale up the production of special "dead space" syringe so that full capacity of the vial can be exploited.&nbsp;

Despite the setback, Japan will be beginning its vaccination drive next week, Japanese prime minister has said.&nbsp;

"When we have confirmed the vaccine's efficacy and safety, we will start vaccination by the middle of next week," Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said.

The problem of special syringe shortage is encountered not just by Japan, but European Union nations and the US are also facing a similar issue.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Millions of people in Japan will not able to receive Pfizer- BioNTech's vaccine to treat coronavirus as planned as special syringes used to give the dose remains short of supply.

Millions of people in Japan will not able to receive Pfizer- BioNTech's vaccine to treat coronavirus as planned as special syringes used to give the dose remains short of supply. Japan has ordered 144 million shots of Pfizer vaccine to immune 72 million doses, considering that each vial contained six doses. Watch | Norihisa Tamura, country's health minister said the normal syringes that are used will unable to extract the final dose from a vial, implying about 60 million people will be vaccinated. Also read | South Africa to proceed with planned phase 1 vaccination using J&J "The syringes used in Japan can only draw five doses," Tamura was quoted as saying by news agency Kyodo. "We will use all the syringes we have that can draw six doses, but it will, of course, not be enough as more shots are administered." The government is urging manufacturers to scale up the production of special "dead space" syringe so that full capacity of the vial can be exploited. Despite the setback, Japan will be beginning its vaccination drive next week, Japanese prime minister has said. "When we have confirmed the vaccine's efficacy and safety, we will start vaccination by the middle of next week," Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga said. The problem of special syringe shortage is encountered not just by Japan, but European Union nations and the US are also facing a similar issue.

Shortage of special syringe for Pfizer will affect millions of vaccinations in Japan

On Monday, China has justified the intrusion of its coast guard vessels into Japan's territorial waters. Beijing-claimed Senkaku Islands are the country's "inherent territory".

Beijing claims Senkaku Islands are China's "Inherent Territory"

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